He's got good tastes!

Our son is an American Idol freak. We had an inkling that something was up last week, but last night, his fanaticism was confirmed.

Husband and I are by no means eager to expose our son to the black hole that is known as television. Between his daddies and his grandparents, our son spends his time eating, playing, napping, and being read to and loved on by any given member of our household. The television may be on in the background, but usually we work to keep him occupied with something a little less 'brain mushing' than the boob-tube - take, for instance, a rousing session of baby-talk or peek-a-boo...

Husband and I, however, do enjoy a few "quality" (ha ha) programs, and American Idol is near the top of our list at the moment. So last night, husband and I were going through our nightly "settling in" procedure, preparing ourselves for a little AI action before bed. With dogs in crates, teeth brushed, and son in pajamas, all was looking promising as we prepared to enjoy (and, let's just be honest, criticize) the candidates' performances of 60's era tunes.

Husband turns on the television and DVR box at 8:20 (hey...there will be no commercial watching if we can help it!)...just as I am laying son down to sleep. As soon as the intro music comes on, son's eyes open and the fussiness commences. I pick son up and gently attempt to rock him in my arms, but to no avail. Son simply won't have any of it, and he fights to see the television. As soon as the first song starts, son is instantly calm (and glued to the television). As the first commercial break ensued, the fussiness resurfaced...husband couldn't fast forward fast enough! Again, a new song, and again, a calm baby.

By the third song, son was fast asleep and husband and I were left scratching our heads. I guess if our child is going to be addicted to something at 7 months, there are worse things that could capture his interest! I don't know if husband and I could stand to watch Teletubbies or Barney as we attempt to relax the day away!

Our son - his first words will probably be something like "that was just horrific" in Simon's trademark British accent...

Obsessions

Over the past few days, I have had a lot of "quiet" time in my classroom, as my students have been completing their state-mandated high-stakes writing assessments. There is only so much "desk organization" a person can do while students are quietly working...

And so, I began to think about "thinking"... Given the time, it is amazing what the brain can come up with to fill the "boredom". So, as my students were occupied, I allowed my mind to wander. Over the course of about an hour, here are some of the "obsessions and/or captivations" on which I contemplated:

• "Lost" - As we spent the entire day on Sunday "catching up" on Season 3 of Lost, it occurred to me that perhaps the title does not refer to the passengers of Oceanic Flight 815, but rather, to the audience that is trying to keep up with each new twist and turn of the show itself...
• RV's - We are so fortunate to have been able to join some close friends on several RV excursions. I can't wait until we are able to purchase our own RV so that we can provide our son with the opportunity to explore "whole new worlds"...
• The Cabin - My aunt and uncle built a cabin in the mountains of Montana over 30 years ago. Some of my earliest memories are of the time I spent at this magical place - and now, in a little over a month, I will be introducing my own son to the cabin (and, as such, will finally feel a little old!)...
• Post Secrets - I'm not sure I have ever visited a more dramatic website. Some of the secrets will make you smile, while others are disturbing or sad. However, they all simply and distinctly human. Think the opposite of people watching -- thought reading...
• You Tube - Only for the videos in which people are singing. If I could add one "ability" to my existence, it would be the ability to sing. There are so many talented people out there, and I love listening to them share their gifts...
• Google - I often wonder how we made it through life without the power of Google. While it has tremendous educational potential, I enjoy Googling people I know. Give it a shot - you never know what you might find!
• Do-It-Myself Projects - Our home is filled of D-I-M outcomes, some of which even look good! I'm ok with wood laminate flooring and paint, but clearly need some more work when it comes to cabinet refinishing. Oh well, maybe I'll start on them again soon...

I am sure I have many, many more obsessions and captivations. In fact, these were just the proverbial tip of the iceberg. However, now that I have shared, I would love to know what interests you. Please leave a comment and share - I love hearing from you!

Peace!

His2Dads